Sensor-enabled system and method for monitoring the health, condition, and/or status of rail track infrastructure

ABSTRACT

A sensor-enabled geogrid system for and method of monitoring the health, condition, and/or status of rail track infrastructure is disclosed. In some embodiments, the sensor-enabled geogrid system includes a sensor-enabled geogrid that further includes a geogrid holding an arrangement of one or more sensors. The sensor-enabled geogrid system further includes a communication means or network for collecting information and/or data from the sensor enabled geogrid about the health, condition, and/or status of rail track infrastructure. Further, a method of using the presently disclosed sensor-enabled geogrid system for monitoring the health, condition, and/or status of rail track infrastructure is provided.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present patent application claims the benefit and priority of U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 62/967,733, filed on Jan. 30, 2020,titled “SENSOR-ENABLED GEOGRID SYSTEM FOR AND METHOD OF MONITORING THEHEALTH, CONDITION, AND/OR STATUS OF INFRASTRUCTURE,” as well as U.S.Provisional Application No. 62/967,736, filed on Jan. 30, 2020, titled“SENSOR-ENABLED GEOGRID SYSTEM FOR AND METHOD OF MONITORING THE HEALTH,CONDITION, AND/OR STATUS OF RAIL TRACK INFRASTRUCTURE,” and U.S.Provisional Application No. 63/030,485, filed on May 27, 2020, titled“SENSOR-ENABLED SYSTEM FOR AND METHOD OF MONITORING THE HEALTH,CONDITION, AND/OR STATUS OF PAVEMENT AND VEHICULAR INFRASTRUCTURE,” thecontents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in theirentireties.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to structural health monitoringand more particularly to a sensor-enabled geogrid and/or platform formonitoring the health, condition, and/or status of rail trackinfrastructure.

BACKGROUND

Sensing technologies that provide data to evaluate the condition orhealth of infrastructure are in common usage in applications such asbridges, tunnels, and buildings. These applications are commonlyreferred to as Structural Health Monitoring (SHM). Other infrastructure,such as roads, rail, parking lots, drill platforms, buildings, walls andslopes, and marine applications, could also benefit from utilizingsensors that provide data that can be used to evaluate their condition.However, adding sensors to these applications has traditionally beendifficult due to the need to remove existing materials and ensureaccurate placement of the sensors to provide meaningful data. Theseproblems are further exacerbated by the location and scale of installedinfrastructure, as well as often unforgiving surrounding environments.

Accordingly, various infrastructure applications could benefit from SHMif accurate sensor data were available that could be utilized to assessthe conditions affecting the structures. For example, in railapplications, moisture building under the track ballast is a knownproblem that can weaken the ballast structure and the soils below theballast, resulting in degradation and movement of the rail track and theeventual need to repair. In some cases, tracks can be weakened such thatthe speed of the train must be reduced or (in extreme cases) derailmentscould occur.

Currently, the health and/or condition and status of infrastructure istypically assessed by visual inspection. Visual inspection suffers fromthe problem of only being able to see what is above ground.Additionally, visual inspections are time consuming, require personnelto be on site to perform the inspection, and suffer from subjectivity interms of the judgement of the severity of the condition. In many cases,once a problem has been discovered by a visual inspection, the damagehas already occurred to the substructure (the soil, aggregate, ballast,sub-ballast, subgrade, etc.) and major repair work may be required(often times in an emergency manner and at an increased cost). There isa long sought need to improve conditions around infrastructuremaintenance, health, and condition through systematic monitoring. Thedisclosure herein attempts to remove human error and remove the laborintensive task of visual inspection. The disclosure seeks to provideteams and organizations with meaningful feedback and understanding ofinfrastructure health and condition. In doing so, the system and methodsherein provide a proactive maintenance program, replacing often reactivemeasures.

SUMMARY

Aspects of sensor enabled systems and methods for monitoring thestructural health, integrity, and condition of rail track infrastructureare disclosed. Infrastructure is referred to herein as differentembodiments, such as rail track infrastructure, infrastructuresurrounding rail track, including pavement, and building infrastructure,working platforms, and other civil and geotechnical engineering-relatedinfrastructure in which a geogrid, geofabric, or other geosynthetics areused.

In one aspect a plurality of sensors is equipped to, and configuredwith, a geogrid to form a sensor enabled geogrid. The sensor enabledgeogrid provides intelligence and understanding of infrastructure,including the status and health and/or condition of the rail trackinfrastructure. Such intelligence is transmitted along a series ofcommunication and computing networks; this type of system is oftenreferred to as an Internet of Things (IoT) platform. In an IoT platformphysical objects are embedded with sensors, software, and technologiesthat allow for connecting and exchanging data to systems over theInternet.

In one aspect a system for rail track infrastructure intelligence isdisclosed. Wherein the system for rail track infrastructure intelligenceincludes rail track infrastructure. The rail track infrastructurecomprises rail tracks, ballast material, a sensor enabled geogrid, andsubgrade material. Further, the rail track infrastructure includes amicrocontroller, wherein the microcontroller is configured to the sensorenabled geogrid. The rail track infrastructure includes a gateway,wherein the gateway is configured to the microcontroller to providecommunications through a network to a computing device. Further, thecomputing device is equipped with a user interface and capable ofcommunicating information to an end user regarding the status, healthand/or condition of the rail track infrastructure.

In some embodiments, a sensor-enabled geogrid system for and method ofmonitoring the health, condition, and/or status of rail trackinfrastructure is disclosed. The sensor-enabled geogrid system includesa sensor-enabled geogrid and a communication means or network forcollecting information and/or data about the health, condition, and/orstatus of rail track infrastructure. Further, in the present embodiment,the computing network includes a platform and a user facing applicationthat reports the status and provides real time updates regardinginformation received from the sensors.

In some embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matter provides asensor-enabled geogrid system for and method of monitoring the health,condition, and/or status of rail track infrastructure. The presentlysensor-enabled geogrid system includes a sensor-enabled geogrid and acommunication means or network for collecting information and/or dataabout the health, condition, and/or status of rail track infrastructure.In additional embodiments, the sensor-enabled geogrid is asensor-enabled geofabric, or other composite utilized in theconstruction of or implementations commonly used in substrate layers.The sensor enabled layer is in communication with a sensor pod, whereinthe sensor pod is configured with a microcontroller capable ofconverting the analog signals from sensors, and/or compiling the digitalsignals from sensors into transmittable data. In such embodiments, thesensor pod may communicate with a gateway device, wherein the gatewaydevice is equipped to process the signals and/or transmit the signalsthrough a communication network to a computing environment in which auser may access a portal or web application for inspection of sensordata.

In some embodiments, the presently disclosed sensor-enabled geogridsystem and method provides a sensor-enabled geogrid between thesub-grade and the sub-ballast of the rail track infrastructure andthereby providing one example of a sensor-enabled rail trackinfrastructure. In other embodiments, the presently disclosedsensor-enabled geogrid system and method provides a sensor-enabledgeogrid between the sub-ballast and the ballast of the rail trackinfrastructure and thereby providing another example of a sensor-enabledrail track infrastructure.

In some embodiments, the presently disclosed sensor-enabled geogridsystem and method provide information and/or data about the health,condition, and/or status of rail track infrastructure that may be usefulin many applications, such as, but not limited to, condition-basedmaintenance, lifecycle cost optimization, remaining life estimation, andcapital planning. Further, in such embodiments, the sensor-enabledgeogrid system and method provide a predictive algorithm through inputderived from the sensors, and parameters applied at the sensor pod, thegateway, and/or at the computer network. In the example, the predictivealgorithm may be used for creating an early warning system, or a systemthat identifies potential issues with the health, condition, and/orstatus of the rail track infrastructure.

The aforementioned embodiments are but a few examples of configurationsof the systems, apparatuses, and methods disclosed herein. Furtherunderstanding and a detailed coverage of example embodiments follows.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Many aspects of the present disclosure will be better understood withreference to the following drawings. The components in the drawings arenot necessarily to scale, with emphasis instead being placed uponclearly illustrating the principles of the disclosure. Moreover, in thedrawings, like reference numerals designate corresponding partsthroughout the several views. It should be recognized that theseimplementations and embodiments are merely illustrative of theprinciples of the present disclosure. Therefore, in the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an example of a sensor-enabled geogridsystem for monitoring the health, condition, and/or status ofinfrastructure;

FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a sensor-enabled geogrid infrastructurefor monitoring the health, condition, and/or status of infrastructure;

FIG. 3 illustrates an example sensor pod configured to sensors on ageogrid;

FIG. 4A illustrates an example of a sensor pod configured onto a geogridwith the internal components shown;

FIG. 4B illustrates an example of a sensor pod configured onto ageogrid;

FIG. 5 illustrates an example of geofabric embedded with sensors;

FIG. 6 illustrates an example of the internal components of a sensorpod;

FIG. 7 is a component diagram of an example microcontroller configuredfor a sensor enabled geogrid;

FIG. 8 is an illustration of the IoT infrastructure of a sensor enabledgeogrid;

FIG. 9A is an illustration of an example flex gauge;

FIG. 9B is an illustration of an example accelerometer;

FIG. 9C is an illustration of an example temperature sensor;

FIG. 9D is an illustration of an example moisture sensor;

FIG. 9E is an illustration of an example strain gauge;

FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of an example of a method for monitoring thecondition and/or health of infrastructure;

FIG. 11 is a flow diagram of an example of a method for monitoring thecondition and/or health of infrastructure;

FIG. 12 is a sequence diagram of an example of a method for monitoringthe condition and/or health of infrastructure;

FIG. 13A is an illustration of an example of rail track infrastructure;

FIG. 13B is an illustration of an example of rail track infrastructurewith a change in condition and/or health of the rail trackinfrastructure;

FIG. 14A is an illustration of an example of rail track infrastructurewith a sensor enabled geogrid installed above the subgrade;

FIG. 14B is an illustration of an example of rail track infrastructurewith a sensor enabled geogrid installed above the sub-ballast;

FIG. 15A is an illustration of an example of rail track infrastructurewith a sensor enabled geogrid installed and a change in the conditionand/or health of the rail track infrastructure in the subgrade;

FIG. 15B is an illustration of an example of rail track infrastructurewith a sensor enabled geogrid installed and a change in the conditionand/or health of the rail track infrastructure in the sub-ballast;

FIG. 16A is an illustration of an example of rail track infrastructurewith a sensor enabled geogrid installed and a change in the conditionand/or health of the rail track infrastructure in the sub-ballast;

FIG. 16B is an illustration of an example of rail track infrastructurewith a sensor enabled geogrid installed and a change in the conditionand/or health of the rail track infrastructure in the ballast;

FIG. 17A is an illustration of an example of rail track infrastructurewith sensor enabled geogrids installed at multiple layers of the railtrack infrastructure.

FIG. 17B is an illustration of an example of rail track infrastructurewith a sensor on the rail tie, a sensor pod, and a gateway;

FIG. 18A is an illustration of another configuration of an example ofrail track infrastructure with a sensor on the rail tie, a sensor pod,and a gateway;

FIG. 18B is an illustration of an elevational view of sensorconfiguration on a sensor enabled geogrid on rail track infrastructure;

FIG. 19 is a flow diagram of an example of a method for monitoring thecondition and/or health of rail track infrastructure;

FIG. 20 is an illustration of example forces on pavement infrastructure;

FIG. 21A is an illustration of example pavement infrastructure;

FIG. 21B is an illustration of example change in condition and/or healthof pavement infrastructure;

FIG. 22A is an illustration of an example sensor enabled pavementinfrastructure;

FIG. 22B is an illustration of an example sensor enabled pavementinfrastructure experiencing a change in condition and/or health of thesystem;

FIG. 23 is a flow diagram of an example of a method for monitoring thecondition and/or health of pavement infrastructure;

FIG. 24 is an example of a user interface from a computing networkdisplaying the system of sensor enabled infrastructure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The presently disclosed subject matter now will be described more fullyhereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some,but not all embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter areshown. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. The presentlydisclosed subject matter may be embodied in many different forms andshould not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein;rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure willsatisfy applicable legal requirements. Indeed, many modifications andother embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter set forthherein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which thepresently disclosed subject matter pertains having the benefit of theteachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associateddrawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the presently disclosedsubject matter is not to be limited to the specific embodimentsdisclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended tobe included within the scope of the appended claims.

Much of this disclosure relies on an understanding of a few basicmetrics utilized in infrastructure support, including support ofpavement and rail track infrastructure. One such metric or equation isthe Giroud-Han (G-H) Design Method, wherein

$h = {\frac{\left\{ {{{0.8}68} + {{CF}\left( \frac{r}{h} \right)}^{1.5}} \right\}{Log}1N}{\left\{ {1 + {0.2{4\left\lbrack {{Re} - 1} \right\rbrack}}} \right\}} \times \left( {\frac{\frac{\sqrt{P}}{\pi r^{2}}}{\frac{s}{fs}\left\{ {1 - {0.9{\exp\left\lbrack {- \left( \frac{r}{h} \right)^{2}} \right\rbrack}}} \right\}{NcCu}} - 1} \right){r.}}$

Wherein h is the required compacted aggregate (such as gravel or otheraggregate material) with thickness m. CF is the calibration factor forthe geosynthetic/geofabric/geogrid used in design. Re is the limitedmodulus ration of compacted aggregate to subgrade soil (Maximum=5.0).The r is the radius of equivalent tire contact area. Important fordisclosure algorithms herein the s value is the maximum allowable rutdepth. Fs is the reference rut depth. Nc is the bearing capacity factor(for unstabilized roads, Nc=3.14; for geotextile stabilized roadsNc=5.14; for geogrid stabilized roads, Nc=5.71.

Another equation is the definition of strain utilizing a strain gauge.Strain can be positive (tensile strain), or negative (compressivestrain). Strain is dimensionless, unless configured in a manner todetect dimension, in practice the magnitude of strain is low and oftenmeasured in micro strains (μ∈). Therefore, strain is the amount ofdeformation of a body due to applied force. More specifically, strain(∈) is defined as the fractional change in length with the followingequation:

$\mathcal{E} = {\frac{\Delta L}{L}.}$

Another aspect of strain gauges is to clearly define and understand theparameter or sensitivity to strain. This sensitivity is often expressedquantitatively as the gauge factor or GF. We can determine the gaugefactor using the following equation:

$G = {{\frac{\frac{\Delta R}{R}}{\frac{\Delta L}{L}}{or}\left( \frac{\Delta R}{R} \right)/} \in .}$

Wherein the gauge factor GF is defined by the ration of the fractionalchange in electrical resistance to the fractional change in the length(strain).

With flex sensors that are comprised of phenolic substrate resin,conductive ink, and a segmented conductor, they require understanding ofthe resistance generated when bent. In one example a flat flex sensormeasures 25KΩ, when bent at 45° the flex sensor measures 62.5KΩ, andwhen bent 90° the flex sensor measures 100KΩ. Depending on the flexsensor and its specifications the resistance generated will differ andthus when described or configured herein the variability is to beexpected across devices.

Additional concepts require an understanding of materials utilized ininfrastructure support and management. The table provided belowhighlights the differences in geosynthetic materials. It is important tonote that the embodiments herein are not limited to any one type ofgeosynthetic material, as disclosed the embodiments can be configured,attached, or adapted to a multiplicity of materials, including thesubstrate itself. Furthermore, a combination of materials may beutilized to accomplish the disclosure herein, including examples oflayering a sensor enabled geogrid with a sensor enabled fabric.

Polymeric Application Major Geosynthetics Materials Structures AreaFunctions Geotextiles Polypropylene Flexible, Retaining walls,Separation, (PP), Polyester permeable slopes, reinforcement, (PET),fabrics embankments, filtration, Polyethylene pavements, drainage, (PE),Polyamide landfills, dams containment (PA) Geogrids PP, PET, highMesh-like Pavements, Reinforcement, density planar product railwayballasts, separation polyethylene formed by retaining walls, (HDPE)intersecting slopes, elements embankments, bridge, abutments GeonetsMedium- density Ney-like planar Dams, pipeline Drainage polyethyleneproduct with and drainage (MDPE), HDPE small apertures facilitiesGeomembranes PE, polyvinyl Impervious thin Containment Fluid barriers/chloride (PVC), sheets ponds, liner chlorinated reservoirs, andpolyethylene canals (CPE) Geocomposites Depending on Combination ofEmbankments, Separation, geosynthetics geotextiles and pavements,reinforcement, included geogrids/ slopes, landfills, filtration,geonets, dams drainage geomembranes and geogrids

Geotextiles also known as geofabrics are one concept highlighted in thetable above and in which the disclosure herein may be configured with.There are three ways a geotextile can be manufactured; they are eitherknitted, woven, and nonwoven or any combination thereof. The distinctionbetween woven and nonwoven is that a woven geotextile is produced by theinterlacement of warp and weft yarns. These yarns may either be spun,multifilament, fibrillated, or of slit film. Nonwoven geotextiles aremanufactured by mechanically interlocking or thermally bonding thefibers/filaments. The mechanical interlocking is attained throughneedle-punching.

With regard to function of geotextiles, they operate in several distinctfunctions and bear similarities to geogrids and geosynthetics. The firstbeing separation, wherein the geotextile provides separation ofparticles and prevents mixing of substrates. Two such issues arefine-grained soils enter the void of the aggregate base and theaggregate punches into the fine grained soil. The first issue is aconcern since it avoids adequate drainage and greatly reduces thestrength of the aggregate layer which hastens infrastructurefailure/erosion. The second issue is a concern because it decreases theeffective thickness of the aggregate layer which also hastens roadfailure and/or increases infrastructure maintenance. The secondprominent function of geotextiles is stabilization. The effectiveness ofthe geotextile stabilization results from two factors. First, theaggregate is compacted above the geotextile and individual stones areconfigured, which places imprints in the subgrade and geotextile. Whenconfigured, aggregates are fixed into a position, which stabilizes theaggregate base layer. The stabilization of the subgrade soil due togeotextile can change the soil failure mode from local shear to generalshear. Due to this change in shear, an additional load is permittedbefore the soil strength is surpassed which allows for a reducedaggregate base layer. A third benefit of geofabrics is reinforcement.The benefits of reinforcement are reliant on the extent of deformationallowable in a given system. Filtration, is an additional function,wherein the defined openings in the geotextile that hold soil particlesalso allow for and permit fluid movement and flow. The filtration inthis aspect filter the soil out, holding it in place while permittingfluids to flow through and egress.

Geogrids are geosynthetics formed with open apertures and grid-likeconfigurations of orthogonal or non-orthogonal ribs. Geogrids are oftendefined as a geosynthetic material consisting of connected parallel setsof tensile ribs with apertures of sufficient size to allow forstrike-through of surrounding soil, stone, or other geotechnicalmaterial. Several methods exist for producing geogrids. For example,extruding and drawing sheets of Polyethylene (PE) or Polypropylene (PP)plastic in one or two or even three or more directions, or weaving andknitting Polyester (PET) ribs. Geogrids are designed mainly to satisfythe stabilization and reinforcement function for a variety ofinfrastructure, including roads, rail, buildings, ground erosion, andmore, however, ancillary benefits such as material cost savings and moreare applicable.

Regarding the structure of geogrids, the ribs of a geogrid are definedas either longitudinal or transverse. The direction which is parallel tothe direction that geogrid is fabricated on the mechanical loom is knownas roll length direction, Machine Direction (MD), or longitudinaldirection. On the other hand, the direction which is perpendicular tothe mechanical loom and MD in the plane of geogrid, is known asTransverse Direction (TD) or cross machine direction. In other words,the longitudinal ribs are parallel to the manufactured direction (a.k.a.the machine direction); the transverse ribs are perpendicular to themachine direction. Some mechanical properties of geogrid such as tensilemodulus and tensile strength are dependent on the direction whichgeogrid is tested. In a geogrid, the intersection of a longitudinal riband a transverse rib is known as a junction. Junctions can be created inseveral ways including weaving or knitting.

Regarding the production of geogrids, geogrids are produced by eitherwelding, extruding, and or weaving material together. Extruded geogridis produced from a polymer plate which is punched and drawn in eitherone or more ways. Various aperture types are shaped based on the way thepolymer sheet is drawn. Drawing in one, two or three or more directionsresults in production of uniaxial, biaxial, triaxial, and various othermultiaxial geogrids. Polypropylene (PP) or polyester (PET) fibers aregenerally used to produce woven geogrids. In most cases, these fibersare coated to increase the abrasion resistance of produced geogrid.Manufacturing process of welded geogrid is by welding the joints ofextruded polymer woven pieces. Geogrids are also categorized in two maingroups based on their rigidity. Geogrids made from polyethylene (PE) orpolypropylene (PP) fibers are usually hard and stiff and they have aflexural strength more than 1,000 g-cm. Flexible geogrids, are oftenmade from polyester (PET) fibers by using a textile weaving process.They usually have a flexural strength less than 1,000 g-cm.

While geotextiles can be used for separation, drainage and filtration,or reinforcement, geogrids are mainly used for reinforcement and/orstabilization applications. Geogrids can also provide confinement andpartial separation. The confinement is developed through theinterlocking mechanism between base course aggregate particles andgeogrid openings. The interlocking efficiency depends on base courseaggregate particle distribution and the geogrid opening size andaperture. In order to achieve the best interlocking interaction, theratio of minimum aperture size over D50 should be greater than three.The effectiveness of interlocking depends on the in-plane stiffness ofthe geogrid and the stability of the geogrid ribs and junctions. Thestabilization and reinforcement mechanisms in geogrid reinforcedinfrastructure include lateral restraint (confinement). Lateralrestraint increases bearing capacity and tension membrane effect.Aggregate base layer lateral restraint is the fundamental mechanism forgeogrid reinforced infrastructure. For example, a vertical load appliedon the surface of the infrastructure would cause lateral spreadingmotion of the aggregate base materials. As the loading is applied on thesurface of the infrastructure, tensile lateral strains are generated inthe base layer causing the aggregates to move out away from the loading.Geogrid stabilization and reinforcement of infrastructure restrainslateral movements, also known as lateral restraint. In doing so geogridreinforcement changes the “failure location” from the weaker subgradesoil to the stronger aggregate layer.

Covering now various embodiments of the present disclosure. In someembodiments, the presently disclosed sensor-enabled geogrid system andmethod includes a geogrid as the sensor “carrier” that may be used formonitoring the health, condition, and/or status of rail trackinfrastructure. In similar embodiments the sensor enabled geogrid may bea multi-axial geogrid in configurations such as uniaxial, biaxial,triaxial, and hexagonal, to name a few configurations. In otherembodiments the sensor carrier may be a geofabric or other substrate orsoil layer holding material such as a geosynthetic, geonet, geomesh, orgeocomposite.

In additional embodiments, the presently disclosed sensor-enabledgeogrid system and method uses a sensor-enabled geogrid to provide“below the surface” information and/or data about the health, condition,and/or status of rail track infrastructure wherein the “below thesurface” information may not otherwise be attainable by conventionalmeans such as by visual inspection. Further, below the surfaceinvestigative equipment such as ground penetrating radar, and otherinstruments require equipment transported to the site and applied in aper occasion basis as well as fitted and designed to work with varyingrail track installations.

In some embodiments, the presently disclosed sensor-enabled geogridsystem and method for monitoring the health and/or condition ofinfrastructure is equipped with a sensor-enabled geogrid wherein thesensors are mounted or otherwise installed on the geogrid mesh,geofabric, or other geogrid structure. In other embodiments, thepresently disclosed sensor-enabled geogrid system and method provide asensor-enabled geogrid wherein the sensors are directly embedded in thestructural members forming the geogrid. The sensors and or assemblies orstructures of the sensors may be extruded with the geogrid, or in thecase of fabric, may be woven or otherwise integrated with the structureso that the geogrid itself becomes one large sensor. In furtherembodiments, the sensors may be distributed within the infrastructureitself, and not configured with a geogrid, but configured to rigidmembers within structures such as rebar, aggregate, etc. In furtherembodiments the sensors may be strategically placed within theinfrastructure, for e.g. a moisture sensor may be placed in an areawhere moisture readings may be better understood or acquired.

In one aspect a signal from one or more of the plurality of sensors isreceived by the sensor pod, wherein the sensor pod transmits it to thegateway and the gateway sends an alert to the user interface generatedby the computing network and or/cloud server or application. Forexample, a strain gauge may indicate that strain levels have increasedpast threshold parameters at a specific geogrid location. The signal isprocessed in the gateway to identify a problem, wherein the gatewaytransmits data concerning the location of the affected sensor, alongwith a plurality of features (if the given sensors are equipped) such asambient temperature, moisture, any movement or acceleration in thesurrounding vicinity, all of which will aid the principle investigator,user, or operator in the system in identifying issues or problems withthe health, condition and/or status of the given infrastructure.

In some embodiments, the presently disclosed sensor-enabled geogridsystem and method provide a sensor-enabled geogrid that is easy toinstall and provides a straight forward mechanism for monitoring thehealth, condition, and/or status of infrastructure. The system iscapable of plug and play aspects and being able to integrate within newinfrastructure projects or be installed in a remedial basis on currentexisting infrastructure. The ease of installation includes the abilityto run contiguous sections of sensor-enabled geogrid to form a blanketof coverage, wherein the plurality of sensors on the plurality ofsensor-enabled geogrids work in unison and transmit real time feedbackregarding the status of the entire installed area.

In other aspects, a sensor-enabled geogrid system, the interconnectionflow or IoT network, and method of providing the status, conditionand/or health of infrastructure, including pavement and rail track, aswell as other infrastructure and how the system and method providesbeneficial features is disclosed. Such beneficial features include, butare not limited to, (1) providing a direct sensing element in thesubstructure using the one or more sensors of sensor-enabled geogrid;(2) providing the ability to measure and use the flex and/or strain onthe geogrid and translating the parameters about the gird performance(e.g., stress and/or strain on the geogrid ribs) into information aboutthe substructure conditions (e.g., rutting); and (3) providing theability to detect conditions below the surface, such as temperature,moisture, rutting, and the like.

In some embodiments, the presently disclosed sensor-enabled geogridsystem and method uses a sensor-enabled geogrid to provide “below thesurface” information and/or data about the health, condition, and/orstatus of infrastructure wherein the “below the surface” information maynot otherwise be attainable by conventional means such as by visualinspection. Further, below the surface investigative equipment such asground penetrating radar, and other instruments require equipmenttransported to the site and applied in a per occasion basis.

In additional aspects a plurality of sensors is equipped in substrateand/or the underlying soil layer beneath or surrounding a piece ofinfrastructure. In other aspects the plurality of sensors is equipped toa geofabric. The plurality of sensors, in one embodiment, is connectedto a sensor pod. In one aspect the sensor pod is a protective enclosurethat provides elemental protection for a microcontroller that is readingthe data generated from the plurality of sensors. In another embodimentonly one sensor is read by the microcontroller, in other embodiments anycombination of the plurality of sensors may be interfaced and equippedto transmit signals to a microcontroller near the sensor site.

In one aspect, standard microcontrollers can be utilized, or in othercases, general purpose or special purpose computing devices. In theembodiments herein, including the figures, the microcontroller may be ageneral purpose computing device and/or a special purpose computingdevice. In one aspect a microcontroller is configured with a processingunit, cache memory, RAM, volatile or non-volatile storage system, and isequipped with a network adapter, and I/O interface. In other embodimentsa microcontroller may have built in sensors and/or an array of featuressuch as a timer, accelerometer, and more. Microcontrollers possessseveral distinct advantages: first, they typically have a low powerrequirement. Second, they are easy to use, rugged, and come withuniversal applications. Third, the overall cost and composition is low.Fourth, the interoperability is high—a standard feature set of data RAM,non-volatile ROM, and I/O ports allow for access to a plurality of inputdevices. Additional benefits of microcontrollers and adaptation of thosecontrollers to the disclosure herein will be known to those of skill inthe art.

In one aspect the sensor pod is configured to communicate via a datacable to a gateway. A gateway, in the previous aspect is a generalpurpose computer or microcontroller that is configured to receive datafrom the sensor pod, wherein the gateway is equipped to performcomputational action on the data and/or to forward the collated oraccumulated data through a communications network to a computingnetwork. In the previous aspect a telecommunications network may be anycommunication pathway such as cellular and advanced communicationsstandards, including but not limited to edge, 3G, 4G, 5G, LTE, satellitetransmission, radio frequency (RF), microwave transmission, andmillimeter wave transmission. Further, the telecommunications networkmay consist of wireless aspects of WiFi, Wide Area Networks, Bluetooth,Near Field Communication (NFC), and the various standards associatedtherewith such as WiFi 5, WiFi 6, WiFi 6e, Bluetooth 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, 5.0,and other such standards as will change or occur from advancements inthe field. Further, network communications may also include wiredconnections such as twisted pair, coaxial, fiber optics, or other suchnetwork infrastructure and/or spectrum that will be provided for herein.In one aspect the gateway is equipped with Bluetooth and NFC as well asWiFi and cellular CDMA/GSM standards. The communications network, ascommon in other IoT platforms, will often travel through a series ofsteps or interfaces before reaching a computing network that is equippedto process and/or provide an interface for interaction with the data.

In one aspect the gateway transmits programmable instructions to asensor pod. In another aspect the gateway receives programmableinstructions from the computing network, through the telecommunicationnetwork, wherein the instructions provide updates and or configurationto the gateway. In one aspect the communication pathway from the sensorpod to the gateway, and to the computer network, is bidirectional. Inanother aspect it is unidirectional from the sensor pod to the computingnetwork. In yet another aspect only portions of the network arebidirectional, for instance, the gateway and the computer network may bein bidirectional communication while the gateway and the sensor pod arein unidirectional configuration. Certain aspects of the sensor pod maybenefit a unidirectional and simplification of hardware. Whereas otheraspects the gateway may be incorporated into the sensor pod, wherein thesensor pod performs the role of the gateway and the sensor pod.

Turning now to FIG. 1 , a block diagram of an example of the presentlydisclosed sensor-enabled geogrid system (100) for monitoring the health,condition, and/or status of infrastructure. In this example,sensor-enabled geogrid system (100) is built, for example, using an IoTplatform that provides connectivity as well as analysis tools. An IoTplatform is a multi-layer technology that enables straightforwardprovisioning, management, and automation of connected devices within theIoT universe. The IoT platform may be used to connect hardwaredevices/systems to the cloud by using flexible connectivity options,enterprise-grade security mechanisms, and broad data processingcapabilities.

A sensor-enabled geogrid system (100) may include, for example, at leastone sensor-enabled geogrid (120) installed, for example, in a substrateand/or underlying soil layer. In the description herein substrate andunderlying soil are synonymous. Depending upon the application theinfrastructure substrate layers consist of different terms and layers.For example, in pavement infrastructure the substrate or layers mayconsist of any of the following components in order from closest to thesurface downward—a surface course, a binder course, a base course, asubbase course, a compacted subgrade, and a natural subgrade. Similarly,in a rail and track infrastructure, as discussed more later, theinfrastructure comprises various layers and substrate, such as a topcourse, a ballast, a sub ballast, and a subgrade. In this example,sensor-enabled geogrid (120) is installed underground with respect topavement or road infrastructure. That is, sensor-enabled geogrid (120)is installed underground beneath a ground surface (110) (e.g., a roadsurface) and beneath any kind of sublayer (112) (e.g., soil, aggregate,surface course, base course, subbase course, ballast, sub-ballast,subgrade).

The sensor-enabled geogrid (120) includes a geogrid (122) that isholding an arrangement of one or more sensors (124). Geogrid (122), inthis example embodiment is a geogrid or geofabric that serves as asensor “carrier” that may be used for monitoring the health, condition,and/or status of infrastructure. In one example, geogrid (122) is theTriAx® Geogrid available from Tensar International Corporation(Alpharetta, Ga.) and described with reference to U.S. Pat. No.7,001,112, entitled “Geogrid or mesh structure,” issued on Feb. 21,2006. In another example biaxial geogrid is utilized as the sensorcarrier. In other aspects a hexagonal geogrid is utilized as a sensorcarrier. In even other aspects geofabrics are embedded with sensors andform the sensor carrier. In even further aspects the substrate itselfbecomes the sensor carrier.

In the example of FIG. 1 , the various sensors (124) mounted to geogrid(122) essentially render the geogrid (122) a “sensor fusion point.” Thenumber, locations, and/or types of sensors (124) may vary based on theapplication of use. Example types of sensors (124) include, but are notlimited to, temperature sensors, moisture sensors, humidity sensors,force sensors, flex sensors, strain gauges, accelerometers,inclinometers, inertial measurement units (IMU), sonar devices, imagecapture devices, audio capture devices, as well as other sensor typesfor specific applications.

For collecting information and/or data from the one or more sensors(124) of sensor-enabled geogrid (120), sensor-enabled geogrid system(100) may include one or more receiver nodes (130), also known as agateway or gateway node. The gateway receives information from thesensor enabled geogrid (120) through either a data line (cable, fiber,coaxial, Ethernet, line-in, etc.) or from a wireless communicationsassembly configured to the sensor(s) (124). In the example embodiment asensor pod (105) is configured to house a microcontroller, wherein themicrocontroller is configured to receive the signals from the sensorenabled geogrid (120).

In some aspects the sensor pod (105) forms an integral part of the IoTplatform by bringing computational power to the edge of the system(120), protecting the computational instruments, providing environmentalprotection, providing a power supply, providing a communicationsassembly, and many more features as will be described herein. In otheraspects the sensor pod (105) is wholly incorporated into the gateway(130) also known as the gateway receiver node. In such an example thegateway (130) is connected either through a data cable, physically, orthrough a communications adapter attached to the sensor enabled geogrid(120) to receive signals and information from the geogrid (122). Inother aspects, the sensor pod (105) and gateway (130) may performsimilar tasks or be completely unique. In such embodiments as where thesensor pod (105) is adapted to configure with the sensor enabledgeogrid, it receives the signals and transmits the signals to thegateway (130), wherein the gateway sends the signals and/or processedinformation through the network (132) to the computing network (134).

In the example of FIG. 1 the gateway (130) processes and transmitssignals and information from the sensors (124) across one or morecommunication nodes (132), along one or more computing network systems(134), and to a user through one or more frontend interfaces (136). Thegateway (130) is established along the sensor enabled geogrid (122), atthe edge environment (120) typically attached to infrastructure such aspoles, telephone poles, utility poles, towers, buildings, electricboxes, or other infrastructure capable of holding a gateway equippedwith a wireless or wired receiver and telecommunications adapter, andthat is also capable of being configured to a plurality of sensorenabled geogrid.

The gateway (130) may receive communications from the sensor(s) (124),from a sensor pod (105), or from the sensor enabled geogrid (120). Thedistinguishing structures may be bundled together, such that thesensor(s) (124) are configured to the sensor enabled geogrid (120) andwired directly to a sensor pod (105), in which the sensor pod (105) iswired to the gateway (130). In other aspects, they may be unbundled andeach form a separate integral part, for instance, the sensors may bewired to the gateway, wherein the gateway (130) performs the functionsof a sensor pod (105). In other examples the gateway (130) may be, forexample, the local subnetwork nodes in direct communication with the oneor more sensors (124) of sensor-enabled geogrid (120).

The communication nodes, also known as a communication network (132) maybe, for example, the intermediate links between the local subnetworks(e.g., gateway 130) and the core network, which is then connected to thecomputing systems (134). The frontend interfaces (136) or userinterfaces may be, for example, any user interfaces of any user devices.User devices may be, for example, any computing device (e.g., server,desktop computer, laptop computer, tablet device, smart phone, smartwatch, cloud computing device, and the like). Further, the user devicesherein are enabled to view and/or display a software platform capable ofdepicting the condition and/or health of infrastructure.

The communications in sensor-enabled geogrid system (100) may be by anywired and/or wireless communication means for forming a network by whichinformation may be exchanged with other devices connected to thenetwork. The information and/or data that is collected and/or exchangedvia sensor-enabled geogrid system (100) may be any information and/ordata from the one or more sensors (124) that may be useful formonitoring and/or determining the health, condition, and/or status ofinfrastructure, such as substructure (112) under a road or pavement, andwithin rail and track, as shown in FIG. 1 .

FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a sensor-enabled geogrid infrastructurefor monitoring the health, condition, and/or status of infrastructure.In this example, information and/or data from the one or more sensors(202) of sensor-enabled geogrid (210) may supply edge data collectionand connectivity (205), which then supplies a communication network(240), which then supplies a computing network (250) configured to auser Interface and Data API. The computing network (250) then suppliesanalytics and insights, and certain infrastructure specific applications(e.g., rail track, pavement, levee).

In the example the sensor pod (220) is an edge data collection andconnectivity (205) device that may be placed alongside or configuredonto the sensor enabled geogrid (210). The sensor pod is configured witha microcontroller (224), wherein the microcontroller is equipped with aninput output (I/O) interface for configuring with a plurality ofsensors, including but not limited to a strain gauge, a flex sensor, amoisture sensor, an accelerometer, and a temperature sensor. Dependingupon the application of the disclosure herein, specific sensors will beutilized and it will be known to those of skill in the art the properapplication for a given sensor. For example, a temperature sensor wouldlikely not be present in applications with controlled climate such asunderneath building infrastructure in a relatively calm climate. Inaddition, flex gauges may not be used when a strain gauge would sufficefor material cost, and efficiencies of scale. Whether or not a specificsensory device is installed is highly relevant on the given application,a few of such examples are described in more detail, but any combinationof sensors disclosed herein may be used to accomplish the task ofacquiring information from a geogrid.

The microcontroller (224) housed inside of the sensor pod (220) isfurther configured to a power supply and a communications adapter (222).In the example the power supply is a battery, in other embodiments thebattery may be connected to solar infrastructure to provide a chargingsource or otherwise connected to the power grid. The communicationsadapter (222) may be part of the microcontroller or an interfacedmodule, further, with scale and growth of the system a variety ofcommunications adapters may be configured to suit the needs of thesystem. The communications adapter (222) at the sensor pod (220) may behard wired to a communications adapter (232) at the gateway node orgateway receiver (230). In other aspects, the microcontroller (224) onthe sensor pod (220) configures with a communications adapter (222) totransmit the received signals from the plurality of sensors (202) on thesensor enabled geogrid (210).

In one aspect, the sensor pod microcontroller (224) transmits thereceived signals to the gateway (230), wherein the gatewaycommunications adapter (232) receives the signals and begins aprocessing routine on the gateway microcontroller (234) utilizing theinfrastructure processing engine. One aspect of the infrastructureprocessing engine utilizes a set of parameters, for example, theprocessing engine acquires the base strain gauge measurement, andconfigures a max strain amount equal to the amount of tensile strengthof the particular geogrid. In this respect the infrastructure processingengine may send alerts to the computing network (250) through thecommunications network (240) so that a user at the end user interfacewill be presented with the statics and can alert a crew to the sensorlocation for repair. In other aspects the infrastructure processingengine may be executing on the sensor pod microcontroller, the gatewaymicrocontroller, or a cloud or network computing services generalpurpose computer (224, 234, 250). Further, the infrastructure processingengine may operate with a feedback loop to filter the incoming signals.The feedback loop may take previous signals and cancel the signals sothat anomalies that are registered are logged and sent to a computingnetwork for further processing or notification. Often times the userinterface is presented via an application running on a computing networksuch as Amazon Web Services™, Google Cloud Services™, or Microsoft AzureCloud Services™, to name a few. In the example of a computing networkcomprising Microsoft Azure Services™, the server receives informationfrom the gateway (230) or in some cases the sensor pod (220), through acommunication network (240), wherein the web services is running theapplication module and may also be executing the infrastructure engineor other engine such as an alert engine or health and/or conditionengine. In another example, the gateway receives signals regardingmoisture content, wherein the infrastructure processing engine isconfigured with a multi-parameter algorithm, for example the averagemoisture content over a seasonally adjusted period may be used inconjunction with temperature and strain to indicate an area that shouldbe investigated for erosion or washout of a substrate layer. Theseexamples are but a few of the algorithms capable of assessing thecondition and/or health of infrastructure by the use of a sensor enabledgeogrid.

FIG. 3 is an illustration of an example of sensor-enabled geogrid (300)that includes geogrid (310) holding an arrangement of a moisture sensor(340) a strain gauge (342), and a temperature sensor (344). In thisexample, the sensors are mounted or otherwise installed on the mesh orsurface structure of geogrid (310). The geogrid (310) is triaxialgeogrid, however, in other embodiments a biaxial geogrid, or hexagonalgeogrid, or geocomposite or a geofabric may be used to hold the sensorson the surface. For geofabrics, rigid members may be added upon whichthe strain gauge or the flex sensor may be adhered to in which todevelop more precise readings.

In the example of FIG. 3 , the sensor pod (320) is directly wired to theone or more sensors and the sensor pod (320) provides a power source forthe one or more sensors. Further, the power and the data communicationsoften travel in the same cable or line to the one or more sensors, oftenthe one or more sensors is operated by detecting a change in the voltageacross the sensor. For example, in a strain gauge (342) the strain gaugeis comprised of electrical leads, solder pads, resistive foil, and gaugebacking. Wherein the strain gauge measures changes, often minute, inresistance that are associated with strain of the gauge. In the example,multiple strain gauges may be used in a divided bridge circuit tomeasure changes in electrical resistance. This is often called aWheatstone bridge configuration, in which an excitation voltage isapplied across the circuit, and the output voltage is measured acrosstwo points in the middle of the bridge. When there is no load acting onthe bridge, it is said to be balanced, and there is zero output voltage.Any small change in material under the strain gauge results in a changein resistance as the gauge material deforms. Since the change inresistance is often small, amplifiers may be added to strengthen thesignal changes. However, such amplification may introduce increasednoise, in which the microcontroller on board the sensor pod (320) may beconfigured to filter out, or in which the computing network may adopt analgorithm to properly handle signal noise.

In another example (not shown), the one or more sensors installed may bedirectly embedded in the structural members forming geogrid (310). Inthis example, of fully integrated sensors, the geogrid itself isextruded with the required sensors, while in other example orembodiments the sensors are adhered to the surface through physicaladhesion, such as a clamp, or chemical adhesion such as an epoxy or glueadhesive. Further, power is suppled to sensor-enabled geogrid (300) byvarious methods including, but not limited to: (1) wiring from a powersupply that would be located remotely from the grid (e.g., could be inthe edge device); 2) a battery system (that could likely be for limitedlifetime applications (i.e., a few years) that may be embedded or placedinto the sensor pod (320) or configured alongside the sensor enabledgeogrid (300); or 3) a method to generate power from mechanicalvibrations (e.g., piezoelectric type system); or 4) a power supply suchas a solar power array that is directly fed into a battery that ishoused inside the sensor pod (320) or alongside the sensor enabledgeogrid (300).

The sensor-enabled geogrid (300) is not limited to utilizing geogrid(310) for holding sensors. In other embodiments, sensor-enabled geogrid(300) may include any type of geosynthetics and/or geofabrics forholding sensors. Further, in other embodiments the sensor enabledgeogrid (300) may serve as support as the various sensors are placed inlayers of infrastructure.

FIG. 4A illustrates an example of a sensor pod configured onto ageogrid, wherein the sensor pod top casing is removed to show theinternal microcontroller. Additional images of the internal componentsof a sensor pod can be seen in FIG. 6 . In the example of FIG. 4A thesensor pod contains a microcontroller and a plurality of leads to acceptconnection with and communicate with the one or more sensors. Further,in this aspect we can see the sensor pod is fully integrated with thegeogrid as it is secured in place and attached to the surface of thegeogrid. In other aspects the sensor pod may be placed alongside thegeogrid, or in even further aspects the sensor pod may be placed in anexterior enclosure running alongside the geogrid. In such a remoteaspect the sensor pod may also take on attributes disclosed of thegateway node or gateway receiver, in which the sensor pod is enabledwith cellular or network communications to transmit the informationand/or signals from the one or more sensors.

FIG. 4B illustrates an example of a sensor pod configured onto ageogrid, wherein the sensor pod is fully encased in an outer shell. Theouter shell is typically made of a metal or a composite that is low costand durable enough to stand up to environmental factors. In this exampleembodiment the sensor pod is fully integrated to the geogrid, in such away the sensor pod may be assembled offsite and placed intoinfrastructure in typical fashion by rolling the geogrid into place. Inother embodiments the sensor pod is installed in the field as thegeogrid is placed into the infrastructure. In this aspect the sensor podis configured with fasteners to hold onto the exterior surface of thegeogrid. In other aspects the sensor pod may be placed alongside thegeogrid or not fastened in place. In this aspect the leads may be longeror coiled or made of material that will allow for settling or slightmovement without becoming decoupled from the sensor pod.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a sensor enabled geofabric (500).Wherein a plurality of sensors (510) are configured with the geofabric.As discussed earlier, geofabrics are either woven or knitted, or acombination of both. In this example the sensors are integrated into thefabric, by adhering the sensor to the fabric using an adhesive. In otherembodiments the sensors may be integrated into the fabric by knitting orweaving the sensor. In even further embodiments, the fabric itself maybe the sensor with instrumentation for sensing embedded in thegeofabric. In the present example of FIG. 5 the sensor enabled geofabric(510) may be configured with ribs or other instruments upon which tomount the strain gauge or flex sensor. In other embodiments thegeofabric thickness may be increased as to allow for measurements usingthe various sensors and gauges.

Turning now to FIG. 6 . An example of a sensor pod (600) is illustratedwith the top protective cover removed. Visible is the printed circuitboard (PCB) (610) along with various microcontrollers (620) that serveas signal collecting microcontrollers for the various sensors. In theexample embodiment a temperature sensor input leads (612) are located atthe top left of the diagram and serve as input to a temperature sensor.Moisture leads (614), and flex sensor leads (616), as well as straingauge leads (618) are also visible in the example embodiment. In otherexamples only one sensor may be available, in others one or more, and infurther the sensors are configured in special configurations for theapplication. For example, a moisture and strain gauge may be availablein one aspect, and a moisture and temperature in another.

As previously discussed the various sensors and gauges operate toprovide information or sensory data in which the microcontrollers (620)process and transmit through a communications adapter, either via wiredor wireless protocol to a gateway node or receiver in which theinformation is then transmitted through a communications network to acomputing network where the end user has access to a user interface toview the information in real time from the sensors. Often times acomputing network consists of a web services platform as previouslydisclosed. Along the various steps in this example embodiment differentalgorithms may be applied to otherwise structure, filter, sort, alert,prepare, package, or otherwise convert the information received from theplurality of signals to instructions for computational processing.

In alternative embodiments of FIG. 6 the sensor pod (600) may alsocomprise the features of the gateway node or gateway receiver. Whereinthe sensor pod is configured with a wired or wireless connection thattypically will be a cellular connection to transmit the information orsignals received from the one or more sensors. Further, themicrocontroller may be equipped to compute the condition and/or healthof the infrastructure and may send signals or alerts through acommunication network to a computing network wherein an end user mayreceive the signal and send crews or workforce to investigate and/orrepair the location in which the sensor detected a change in conditionand/or health of the infrastructure.

FIG. 7 is a component diagram of an example embodiment of amicrocontroller for a sensor enabled geogrid. It is important to notethat the embedded systems herein, such as the various microcontrollersmay also be configured with general purpose computing, and vice versa.One of skill in the art will recognize the importance of amicrocontroller for various aspects, as well as the replacement of amicrocontroller with a general purpose computer for other aspects.

In the example embodiment of FIG. 7 , the microcontroller (700) iscomprised of several standard components, along with several unique I/Ofeatures. The microcontroller in other embodiments may be a generalpurpose computing device or a special purpose computing device, or anycomputing device capable of performing the disclosure herein. Themicrocontroller is equipped with a timer (712), which plays an importantrole in embedded systems by maintaining the operation cycle in sync withthe system clock or an external networked clock. Further, the timer maybe used in applications such as applications for generating time delaysfor battery conservation or to control sampling rates, etc. Themicrocontroller (700) is equipped with memory (710) in which contains astorage system (702) that is comprised of solid-state drive technologyor may also be equipped with other hard drive technologies, includingvolatile and non-volatile memory for storage of computing information.For example, the infrastructure processing engine may host data tablesor information in relational databases or in unstructured databaseswithin the long term storage (702). The memory (710) of the exampleembodiment of a microcontroller (700) also contains random access memory(RAM) (706) which holds the program instructions along with a cache(708) for buffering the flow of instructions to the processing unit(750). In some aspects the infrastructure processing engine or otherengine such as an engine for signal acquisition from the plurality ofsensors will reside in RAM (706) as instructions are executed by theprocessing unit (750). Hence, data RAM is data space that is usedtemporarily for storing constant and variable values that are used bythe microcontroller (700) during normal program execution by theprocessing unit (750) Similar to data RAM, special function registersmay exist on the microcontroller (700), such special function registersoperate similar to RAM registers allowing for both read and write. Wherespecial function registers differ is that they may be dedicated tocontrol on-chip hardware, outside of the processing unit (750).

Further depicted in the example of FIG. 7 , an application module (704)is illustrated as it would be loaded into memory (710) of themicrocontroller (700). Examples of typical application modules can befound in many consumer electronics, including toys, cameras, appliances,and the like. In our example, the application module (704) loads asensing engine or a detecting engine within the sensor pod for acquiringsignals from the sensor system (722) that is configured to the one ormore sensors attached to the geogrid. Further, the sensor podmicrocontroller (700) may load an engine for compiling the sensorinformation into a database, such as a relational database or anunstructured database. Similarly, the microcontroller (700) as disclosedwithin this example, may be located at the gateway node or node receiverand may perform similar or additional functions. Even further, thesensor pod configuration may also include the gateway configuration ofhardware, such as cellular data service and additional processingengines, or vice versa.

In the example of FIG. 7 , the processing unit (750) is configured to asystem bus (716) that provides a pathway for digital signals to rapidlymove data into the system and to the processing unit. A typical systembus (716) maintains control over three internal buses or pathways,namely a data bus, an address bus, and a control bus. The I/O interfacemodule (718) can be any number of generic I/O, including programmed I/O,direct memory access, and channel I/O. Further, within programmed I/O itmay be either port-mapped I/O or memory mapped I/O or any other protocolthat can efficiently handle incoming information or signals from the oneor more sensors. Configured to the I/O interface module (718) isexternal devices (720), wherein such devices may be an input device(744) such as a PDA, a tablet computer, a smartphone, or a laptop, inwhich may be plug and play with the microcontroller for diagnostics andinformation input, such as a firmware, BIOS, or software update.Further, the sensor system (722) in this example includes a flex sensor(724), an accelerometer (726), a strain gauge (728), a temperaturesensor (730), and a moisture sensor (736). In other embodiments only oneof the sensors may be present, in even further embodiments one or moreof the sensors may be present. Additionally, the I/O interface iscapable of interfacing with a universal serial bus (USB) or other typeof I/O interface such as a controller area network (that may also be apart of the network adapter).

The microcontroller (700) in our example embodiment is furtherconfigured with a network adapter (714), in which the network adaptermay support wired or wireless connections. The networking adaptersupports a variety of transmission rates and some of the corefunctionality that Ethernet or wireless connections bring. The networkadapter herein comprises both a wired Ethernet as well as a wireless orWiFi module. Further, in other aspects only an Ethernet module is partof the network adapter (714). In even further aspects the networkadapter (714) may only comprise a WiFi module. The network adapter (714)is configured to communication with a communication network (734) thatmay start at a gateway node or gateway receiver and continue alongseveral communication pathways to reach a computing network attributedto a program and user interface wherein an end user may view orotherwise visualize the current status, condition, and/or health ofinfrastructure. Including, but not limited to, building infrastructure,city infrastructure, road and pavement infrastructure, and rail andtrack infrastructure to name a few use cases.

Referring now to FIG. 8 , wherein an example illustration of the IoTinfrastructure system (800) of a sensor enabled geogrid is disclosed.The IoT infrastructure system (800) in this example is designed toacquire information from a sensor enabled geogrid, transport thatinformation along a series of communication pathways within acommunication network to a computing network, wherein an end user isable to access, manipulate, code, and utilize the data originating fromthe sensor enabled geogrid. We begin our discussion of FIG. 8 at theedge (825), wherein the edge (825) is an edge network that contains thesensor pod (810) and the gateway (820). The sensor pod (810) isconfigured to the sensor enabled geogrid (not pictured) and is incommunication with a gateway (820), also known as a gateway node orgateway receiver. The gateway (820) is configured to communicate throughwired or wireless means to a communications network (830). Typicalcommunications network (830) equipment is illustrated such as a celltower site (832) also known as a cell site or cellular base station. Acell tower site (832) is a cellular enabled mobile device site whereantennas and electronic communications equipment are placed, typicallyon items such as a radio mast, tower, or other raised structure. Theraised structure of a cell tower site (832) typically includes one ormore sets of transmitter/receivers, digital signal processors, controlelectronics, microcontrollers, GPS receivers, and backup power sources,along with safety and cladding to protect the equipment. In the exampleof FIG. 8 the gateway (820) transmit cellular signals to the cell towersite (832) wherein the cell tower site (832) further transmits signalsto a computing network (840) and ultimately to an end user or userinterface. An application may be running on the computer network todisplay the health and/or condition from the received signals, or theremay be a local general purpose computing device that receivesinformation from the computing network and displays the information orprocesses the information for an end user.

Continuing in the example of FIG. 8 , the communications network (830)may also comprise a small cell (834), wherein the small cell is a lowpowered cellular radio access node that operates in both licenses andunlicensed spectrum and can have a range of 10 meters to a fewkilometers. Small cells are important on certain edge (825) applicationsin which the distance to a cell tower (832) may be far. Further, smallcells are particularly important for cellular bandwidth as signaldensity increases, the unlicensed spectrum may reduce loads and provideefficiency within networked areas. Further, in our example embodiment adistributed antenna system (DAS) (836) may be a part of thecommunications network (830). In a DAS a network of spatially separatedantennae nodes are connected to a common source to transport wirelessservice within a sample geographic area or structure. A DAS may beutilized in embodiments of the present disclosure wherein buildinginfrastructure or city infrastructure is concerned. FIG. 8 is not acomprehensive view of the IoT platform or the communications network(840), many other technologies may be utilized such as wired, coaxial,or fiber optic transmission. Further, embodiments such as satellite andmicrowave transmission, along with standard RF may comprise any aspectof the disclosure as will be known by those of skill in the art.

Turning now to FIG. 9 , wherein an example of a plurality of sensorsthat are applicable to the current disclosure are highlighted. Inaddition, the example sensors herein, other sensors such as pressuresensors, humidity sensors, UV radiation sensors, and lightning detectorsare also applicable. In FIG. 9A an example of a flex sensor isillustrated. A flex sensor or bend sensor is designed to measure theamount of deflection or bending. Typical flex sensors resemble variableresistors that varies the amount of resistance upon bending. Theconstruction of a flex sensor often includes a phenolic resin substrate,upon which a conductive ink is placed and segmented semiconductors areplaced along the conductive ink pathway. Additional embodiments of flexsensors exist and the principles remain the same. In FIG. 9B an exampleof an accelerometer is disclosed. An accelerometer is a tool thatmeasures the rate of change of velocity of a body at its owninstantaneous rest frame. This type of acceleration differs fromdirectional acceleration in a fixed coordinate system. The disclosureherein includes the use of multiple accelerometers for coordination withone another and in measuring the difference between one another. Forexample, one accelerometer may be placed on one rail track and on theopposite rail track an additional accelerometer. Similarly, within theIoT system the accelerometers may be coordinated across the sensorenabled geogrid to form a “map” or a look at the entire system, evenaiding in tracking movements along the system. In FIG. 9C an example oftemperature sensor is disclosed. In the example a resistance thermometeris disclosed, wherein a length of fine wire is wrapped around a ceramiccore or glass, and the wire measures the resistance/temperaturerelationship. Other temperature sensors are applicable, includinginfrared, mercury, digital, and more. In FIG. 9D an example of amoisture sensor is illustrated. In the example illustration the twoexposed pads serve as probes, acting as a variable resistor. The morewater within the substrate, layer, or soil the better the conductivitybetween the two pads, thus lowering resistance. Additional embodimentsof moisture sensors are available and the disclosure is but one sampleamong a plethora of moisture sensors available for commercial purchase.In FIG. 9E an example of a strain gauge is illustrated. As discussedpreviously, a strain gauge measures the stress or strain on materials.When a force is applied to the body of the strain gauge, the bodydeforms, this deformation is called strain. More specifically, strain(E) is defined as the fractional change in length with the followingequation:

$\mathcal{E} = {\frac{\Delta L}{L}.}$

Another type of strain is shearing strain, which is a measure of angulardistortion. Shearing strain is directly measureable by a phenomenonknown as Poisson strain.

${{{Poisson}’}s{strain}} = {- {\mathcal{E}_{\frac{t}{\varepsilon_{1}}}.}}$

Further, there are two types of stress, normal stress or loading appliedto a material and its ability to carry the load, and shear stress whereit is parallel to the plane of normal stress. Both configurations areavailable in the present disclosure, and in the example embodiments wewill see a combination of one or more strain gauges used to detectstrain and sheer in multiple planes.

Turning now to FIG. 10 , wherein a flow diagram is provided of anexample of a method for monitoring the condition and/or health ofinfrastructure. In the example method we begin by distributing sensors(1000), typically in a sensor enabled geogrid, geofabric (or othergeocomposites), however, additional embodiments such as distributingsensors within the infrastructure layers not attached to a geogrid isalso disclosed. Further, the type and count of sensor is dependent uponthe particular use case. In one example, one or more sensors, even ofthe same type of sensor (e.g. multiple strain gauges), are utilized inan array that provides for the most accurate reading possible for agiven infrastructure. Continuing, in our example, we receive the signalsfrom the distributed sensors (1002), typically by a sensor pod orgateway that is at the edge of the IoT network and serves as acollecting and storage device before transmitting the signals orinformation along the communication pathway. Next, in one embodiment, weprocess the signals (1004) or information from the sensors. In oneembodiment this is done at the sensor pod, in another embodiment this isdone at the gateway node or gateway receiver, and in another embodimentthis is done at the computing network or general purpose computer nearthe end user. The process signals (1004) operation, as mentioned canoccur at any computing aspect within the system or at multiple pointswithin the system. In one aspect the sensor pod may process signals(1004) and apply a filter (1006) wherein a filter removes noise orextraneous information received from the one or more sensors. In anotheraspect the sensor pod may process signals (1004) and forward the signalson to the gateway node or the computing network for applying a filter(1006). In other embodiments independent components analysis may occurto isolate signals, in other embodiments a principle components analysismay be done to further refine the signals. It is important to note thatmany algorithms are used to filter signals and/or clean up the datareceived from the sensors, in this example we discuss a few well knownmethods, but other methods are applicable that allow the sensors toproduce intelligible readings and information. Next, and along withprocessing signals (1004) the sensor pod, the gateway, or the computingnetwork may apply an infrastructure processing engine (1008) to the datareceived from the one or more sensors. The infrastructure processingengine, in this example, processes the data received from the sensorsand produces information that an end user can act upon. This may be inthe form of an alert, a message, a notification, or otherwise processthe data that produces an indication if one or more sensors has exceededspecific thresholds. For example, if the moisture sensor displays higherthan average conductivity and the strain gauge is showing increasingstrain or electrical resistance above a moving day average of the straingauge. Further, other sensors may be used to verify the veracity of thedata, such as an accelerometer, for example a train passing on tracks ora car on pavement may cause the strain gauge to temporarily increasebefore returning to normal resistance, the accelerometer mounted on thetracks may detect a train passing and aid in filtering or the processingengine in interpreting the data.

Continuing the discussion with a recitation of steps and methods of theexample infrastructure processing engine (1008) of FIG. 10 . Wherein theinfrastructure processing engine (1008) determines through the one ormore sensors whether there is excessive movement in the ballast or subballast (1010). Next, the second parameter is acquired by theinfrastructure processing engine (1008), wherein it determines ifexcessive moisture is in the ballast and/or sub ballast ofinfrastructure (1012). Lastly, the infrastructure processing engine(1008) uses the first two parameters to determine the magnitude ofsubgrade deformation (1014) and whether or not the condition and/orhealth of the infrastructure should be investigated (1020). Nowfollowing the processing of signals (1004), the processed signals aretransmitted through a telecommunications network (1016) to a computingnetwork, wherein the computing network receives the signals (1018) andmay perform additional processing or apply an infrastructure processingengine (1008) or other similar engine to the information received fromthe sensors. In other aspects the application of filtering the signalsand infrastructure processing occurs at the computing network away fromthe edge of the IoT platform. In other aspects the filtering andprocessing occurs at the gateway node or within the sensor pod itself.Throughout the various examples the result is information on the healthand/or condition of infrastructure or status of the variousinfrastructure without requiring field agents or needing to physicallyinspect the infrastructure. The disclosure herein provides intelligencethroughout the system and allows a sensor enabled grid to communicateactionable information to an end user who can take action on theparticular piece of infrastructure based on the actionable information.

Turning now to FIG. 11 , a flow diagram of an example of a method formonitoring the condition and/or health of infrastructure. In thisexample a sensor enabled geogrid is first installed in a substructure ofinfrastructure (1100). A substructure may be any structure ofinfrastructure that falls below the main surface structure, such as asurface course. Examples of substructures include, but are not limitedto, a ballast, a sub ballast, a binder, a base course, a subbase course,a compacted subgrade, and a natural subgrade. Following installation, anetwork communication is established linking the sensor enabled geogridto a computing network (1110). This may be done through a sensor podattached or configured to the sensor enabled geogrid, or through agateway or gateway node/receiver attached to a geogrid and furtherconfigured through wired or wireless means to a communications network.Next, the information or data from the sensor enabled grid is monitoredby the computing network (1120). Monitoring includes analyzing theinformation and/or data from the sensor enabled geogrid to determine thehealth, condition and/or status of the infrastructure, and also inparticular areas of substructure (1130). Lastly, from the informationgathered from the sensor enabled geogrid, applying preventative and/orcorrective measures or action to the respective substructure (1140).

In FIG. 12 a sequence diagram of an example of a method for monitoringthe condition and/or health of infrastructure (1200) is illustrated.Sensors generate a signal (1202), often times a time series data format(1214), by sampling in a linear fashion, in other embodiments data maybe sampled randomly or by algorithmic means. Next, the sensor podreceives and may also convert/interpret (1204) the signals in the eventthat an analog to digital conversion is necessary. Next, the sensor podtransmits the signal information or data to the gateway, in which thegateway transmits the information along a communication network (1206).The communication network (1206) transmits the information and/or datafrom the sensors and from the gateway to the computing network (1208).Wherein the computing network analyzes (1210) the information or dataand displays the information or data on a user interface. In the exampleembodiment, disclosure for transmitting programmable instructions (1216)from an input device on a user computer or user interface connected to acomputing network to a gateway or a sensor pod is disclosed. In suchembodiments the user may provide updates to the software orapplications, examples include firmware or sensor updates, or updates tothe processing engine(s) via the communications network to the variousedge hardware devices (sensors, sensor pod, gateway).

Continuing with FIG. 12 , in the event no signal (1212) is received fromthe sensors the sensor pod will continue to attempt to capture a signal(1220) Similarly, in the event the gateway does not receive a signal(1222) the gateway may alert the computing network so that the sensorpod and or sensors may be investigated. Additionally, if the gateway isnot receiving communications from either the sensor pod or thecommunications network it may cache the data or otherwise store it untilcommunications resume (1224). Similarly, the sensor pod may also undergothe same procedure if it loses connection to the gateway, it may cacheor otherwise store the signal information from the one or more sensors.In the example embodiment, teams or crews may be dispensed toinvestigate the gateway (1230), or the sensor pod (1232), or the sensors(1234) based on the built in procedures and protocols within the systemof providing alerts at key areas where a loss in communication mayresult in a loss of service or information.

Shifting focus to rail track and infrastructure embodiments. In FIG. 13Aan example embodiment of rail track infrastructure is illustrated. Thevarious layers or substrate defined herein are for example, and inpractice the layers may be defined differently or difficult todetermine. Additional elements of rail track infrastructure may containa ballast shoulder, a cess, sleepers, a blanket, and other layers and orelements. Further, many of the layers may be repeated and/or comprise avariety of additional elements, the focus remains on monitoring thesubstrate through a sensor enabled geogrid, and the examples here arebut a few configurations that are encompassed by the disclosure. Therail track infrastructure (1300) illustrates rail tracks (1310) as wellas a ballast layer (1320), a sub ballast layer (1330), and a sub gradelayer (1340). Together the layers form one embodiment of rail trackinfrastructure that illustrates the rail track infrastructure (1300) ingood health and condition. In FIG. 13B an example of a washout conditionor erosion or damage (1350) in a rail track infrastructure isillustrated (1302). More particularly, the washout condition or erosionor damage to the rail track infrastructure has occurred in the subgrade(1340). Erosion or a washout typically occurs when soft soil or otherlayers break down due to water or mechanical forces, often times duringa heavy downpour, a flash flood, or a flooding body of water.Mountainous regions, and regions lacking vegetation to fortify thesediment may experience additional washout or erosion conditions. Awashout condition in rail and track infrastructure can be difficult tolocate and may even leave the rail suspended above the ground,increasing the chances of a potential accident. Therefore, the sensorenabled geogrid, as disclosed herein, is equipped to detect even minorchanges in the rail track infrastructure, changes that may not be knownby visual inspection, and to analyze those changes for lifecyclemaintenance, repair, and/or mediation.

In FIG. 14A-B an example of rail track infrastructure with a sensorenabled geogrid is illustrated (1400, 1402). In FIG. 14A the sensorenabled geogrid (1440) is placed above the subgrade level (1450). InFIG. 14B the sensor enabled geogrid (1440) is placed above the subballast level (1430). The placement of the sensor enabled geogrid (1440)within the infrastructure is dependent upon the structure of the railand track infrastructure as well as the particular application. In otheraspects a plurality of sensor enabled geogrids, or a sensor enabledgeogrid and a sensor enabled geofabric, or in even other cases a geogridand a sensor enabled geofabric, are combined to form a “sensing layer.”A sensing layer is a layer with one or more sensors on the geogrid orgeofabric that receive information about the rail track infrastructureand transmit the received information to a computing network away fromthe IoT edge for further processing and monitoring. Similarly, to theprevious diagrams, the rail tracks (1410) are placed on ballast material(1420). Ballast material (1420) holds the track in place and typicallyconsists of crushed stone, although other, less suitable materials maybe used such as burnt clay. The appropriate thickness of a rail trackballast depends on the size and spacing of the ties (not shown), theamount of traffic, and various other factors such as the geogridsupported infrastructure or sublayers. The sub ballast (1430) istypically smaller crushed stones than that of the ballast (1420), and isdesigned to support the ballast (1420) and reduce the ingress of waterfrom the underlying support structures. The sensor enabled geogrid(1440), in this example, equipped with a moisture sensor and a straingauge and or flex gauge may anticipate fouling from water ingress in thesubstructure. The moisture sensor may be equipped to sense on a timeseries basis, wherein the computing network and an application modulemay have the seasonal averages or swings and use previous information tobuild or develop a model for the particular region and/or location ofrail track infrastructure.

In FIG. 15A-B a sensor enabled geogrid rail track infrastructure with awashout condition is illustrated. In FIG. 15A the washout condition orerosion or damage has occurred within the subgrade layer (1550). Asubgrade (1550) is typically the native material wherein theinfrastructure is placed. The subgrade (1550) may be compressed or mixedwith other aggregate to fortify if the native material is not capable ofsupporting the application. In FIG. 15B erosion or washout or damage hasoccurred at the sub ballast layer (1530). The location of where theerosion occurs is one example of how the sensor enabled geogrid performsusing the one or more sensors. For example, in the embodiment of FIG.15A the sensor enabled geogrid (1540) may experience strain from themissing sub grade layer (1560), wherein the strain gauge sensor willhighlight added resistance, further, if equipped with a flex sensor, theflex sensor may also verify increased flex on the geogrid due to thewashout condition. The washout in FIG. 15A, in one example, may producea concave bend in the geogrid due to the loss of subgrade, the concavebend will increase readings on the flex sensor and produce signalsalerting of changes in the health and or condition of the rail trackinfrastructure. In other embodiments, the concave bend in FIG. 15A mayproduce resistance in a strain gauge and produce signals depicting thestrain on the sensor enabled geogrid. One skilled in the art willimmediately recognize the benefits of imparting intelligence to railtrack infrastructure, further the cost savings and casualty avoidanceincrease the need for such an application as disclosed herein. In FIG.15B the washout condition or erosion or damage (1560) may removepressure or forces on the top of the geogrid, it may even cause a convexbend, wherein the strain gauge and the flex sensor may alert to suchforces on the sensor enabled geogrid (1540). Additionally, the moisturesensor may indicate an increase in moisture due to a washout and furtherindicate the health and or condition of the rail track infrastructure.

Similarly, in FIGS. 16A-B additional washout or erosion or damage (1660)to a sensor enabled rail track (1630) is illustrated. The rail tracks(1610) are held in place by the ballast (1620), whereby, in the exampleof FIG. 16A the sensor enabled geogrid (1630) is placed. In thisembodiment the sensor enabled geogrid (1630) is placed above a subballast and depicts the use of utilizing the “sensing layer” that is thesensor enabled geogrid at multiple locations in the rail and trackinfrastructure. Similar to FIGS. 15A-B the washout conditions or erosionor damage may occur at various points across the rail trackinfrastructure. The geogrids semi rigid structure allows forces andchanges to be felt throughout in a “web” like fashion so that eventhough the sensors are not placed directly at a point of erosion, theywill nonetheless detect or sense changes in the infrastructure. In FIG.16A the washout (1660) occurs at the sub ballast layer causing a concaveformation of forces on the sensor enabled geogrid. These forces may bedetected by the one or more sensors and transmitted from the edgehardware to a computing network, wherein an end user (via a softwareapplication or platform) may take preventative or remedial measures oralert to a change in the health and condition of the rail trackinfrastructure.

In FIG. 17A a plurality of sensor enabled geogrids (1730) are placed ina rail track infrastructure. The rail track rails (1710) are held by theballast (1720), wherein the first sensor enabled geogrid (1730) isplaced, followed by a sub ballast (1740) and a second sensor enabledgeogrid (1730), that is positioned above the subgrade. In this example,multiple sensor enabled geogrids increase the sensitivity of readingsand allow for additional data and redundancy. Further, such anarrangement may be beneficial for areas of great importance, such as atthe rail track station where increased and repetitive stresses mayfatigue infrastructure more rapidly.

In FIG. 17B an example of edge infrastructure is illustrated for asensor enabled geogrid in rail and track infrastructure (1702). The railtrack rails (1710) are positioned on top of the ballast (1720), whereinin the example embodiment depicts multiple locations of a sensor pod(1760). The sensor pod (1760) may rest on the railroad ties or upperinfrastructure for ease of access and communication. Further, as seen inother embodiments and disclosures herein (FIG. 4 ) the sensor pod (1760)may also be configured to the sensor enabled geogrid (1740) itself. Thelocation of the sensor pod (1760) will vary with rail trackinstallation, however, in additional examples the sensor enabled geogridis fabricated with the sensors and the sensor pod to allow rapidinstallation. The gateway node (1770) or gateway receiver is configuredwith a direct connection, such as Ethernet or data cable or coaxialcable to the sensor pod. The gateway node (1770) or gateway receiver isequipped to transmit both wired or wirelessly to the communicationnetwork (1780), wherein the sensor information is forwarded to acomputing network for further monitoring and analysis.

In FIG. 18A the sensor pod (1850) is depicted as being replaced by thegateway node (1860), wherein the gateway node (1860) provides input andprotection of the leads and configuration for receiving information fromthe sensors. In this example the gateway and the sensor pod are capableof being combined, wherein the sensor pod may have the attributes of thegateway, thus the sensor pod may be equipped to communicate overcellular transmission to a communication network. The edge system may bebroken down into further constituents as well. In additional examplesthe gateway receiver may have one wired receiver from the sensor pod anda wireless receiver from the wired receiver. In the previous example adaisy chain of gateway receivers may be constructed to provide thetransmission of information from the sensors to the communicationnetwork.

In FIG. 18B an elevational view of a sensor enabled rail trackinfrastructure is illustrated. The sensors (1830) may include anaccelerometer on the rail track tie that allows detection of vibrationson the track, wherein the detection of vibrations may allow forfiltering as the train passes, therefore filtering out erroneous strainor flex. In this embodiment the systems may cross reference one anotherand part of the infrastructure processing engine may use one sensor toclean up or filter the data of another sensor. The sensor pod (1820) isdepicted on top of the ballast, facilitating access to the enclosure forupgrades and equipment verification. Further, in the present embodimentthe top of the sensor pod may be equipped with solar infrastructure forpowering a rechargeable battery that powers the sensors andmicrocontroller equipped in the sensor pod (1820). In additionalembodiments, mechanical forces or vibrations in the rail track mayprovide piezoelectric charge that provides charge to the batterypowering the sensor pod microcontroller and sensors. In additionalaspects, for instance on electric driven trains and rail, the sensor podmay tap directly into the grid to receive power. In further aspects thebatteries are equipped to last a lifetime of the sensor pod unit,wherein the replacement time would replace the entire unit. Further, inFIG. 18B the sensor pod (1820) is equipped with cellular communicationsthat allow transmission to the communication network (1830), wherein thedata from the sensors is sent to the computing network.

In FIG. 19 a flow diagram illustrates an example of a method formonitoring the condition and/or health of rail track infrastructure. Inone aspect, an installation of a sensor enabled geogrid is placed withinrail track infrastructure (1900). The sensor enabled geogrid as part ofthe rail track infrastructure is imparted with intelligence in the formof one or more sensors and a sensor pod or gateway to receive thesignals produced from the one or more sensors. Next, a communicationlink is provided between sensor enabled geogrid in the rail trackinfrastructure and a backend computing network (1910). Next, users andthe systems herein monitor the information (1920) received from thesensor enabled geogrid. In monitoring the program or user analyzes theinformation and/or data from the sensor enabled geogrid and determinesthe health, condition, and/or status of the rail track infrastructure(1930). Sometimes, further discovery is needed and the analyzationprocess may direct to additional information gathering. Lastly, ifwarranted, preventative and/or corrective action may take place on therail track infrastructure (1940), including remedying a washout out orerosion condition. Further, in additional embodiments, lifecyclemaintenance of the rail track infrastructure may be guided by ordictated by the information from the sensor enabled geogrid.

Shifting focus to that of sensor enabled geogrids for pavement and roadinfrastructure. FIG. 20 is an illustration of example forces on pavementor road infrastructure. The distribution of forces as well as thedirectional forces are constant wear and tear on pavement and roadinfrastructure. Many installations are critical to the modern economyand there is a long sought need for reliable detection and maintenanceof pavement and road infrastructure. The sensor enabled geogrid withinpavement infrastructure enables a plurality of sensors to monitor thestatus, health, and/or condition of pavement infrastructure withouthaving to use specialized equipment and/or measures that may causefurther degradation, such as drilling or penetrating into the surface.

FIGS. 21-23 disclose embodiments of systems and methods of sensorenabled geogrid in pavement and road infrastructure. In FIG. 21A asample of pavement infrastructure is illustrated. The surface course(2110) is the top layer that is in contact with traffic loads andforces. Characteristics of the surface course (2110) include friction,smoothness, noise control, rut resistance, and drainage. Further, thesurface course (2110) is typically designed to prevent drainage to thelower courses to control erosion and washout. The surface course willmost often comprise asphalt or aggregate that is mixed with a binder,such as mineral aggregate mixed with asphaltic material. The base course(2120) is the layer immediately below the surface course (2110), ittypically provides distribution of forces and assists in drainage. Thebase course (2120) typically includes crushed stone, crushed slag,crushed or recycled gravel, and sand, or combinations of thesematerials. Often times a transition course such as a binder course mayexist between the surface course (2110) and the base course (2120). Thesubbase course (2130) functions primarily as structural support andoften includes the lowest quality of materials. The subbase course(2130) often is made from the local soil or site soil and environment.The examples herein are not exhaustive, many varieties of layers andcoatings to road and pavement infrastructure are possible and will beknown by those of skill in the art.

FIG. 21B is an illustration of forces from a tire (2140) on pavementinfrastructure (2102). In the example the forces from the tire impactthe layers and show degradation (2150) forming from stress and strain.Eventually, when a depression occurs due to loss of subbase course(2130) or through improper drainage of the surface course (2110) or basecourse (2120), a washout may occur or other damage that produces rutsand channels that increase the risk and damage to vehicles. Further,traffic counts and/or loadings can increase erosion due to supportingsoil shifting from repetitive stress and forces. This often causescracks to occur, sometimes increasing subsurface moisture (a detectableaspect of the present disclosure), as well as increased strain and orflex on the sensor enabled geogrid. Even further, temperatures, thefreeze and thaw cycle of water within the pavement infrastructure mayfurther increase erosion and forces on the sensor enabled geogrid.

In FIGS. 22A-B illustrations of example embodiments of sensor enabledpavement and road are disclosed. In FIG. 22A, one aspect has two layersof sensor enabled geogrid (2200) in which the first sensor enabledgeogrid resides within the base course (2220) and another resides withinthe subbase course (2240). In typical embodiments only one sensorenabled geogrid is in place and may reside within the base course,aiding in retaining aggregate material and also sensing, through the oneor more sensors, changes in the health and/or condition of the pavementor road infrastructure. In FIG. 22B an example of a tire (2250) applyingforce, wherein the continual force has caused a washout or otherdeformation, illustrating the strain and forces on the geogrid structure(2220). These illustrations are but a few examples and are exemplary ofhow forces may deform the sensor enabled geogrid and allow for detectionor change in the health and/or condition of pavement and roadinfrastructure.

FIG. 23 is a flow diagram of an example of a method for monitoring thecondition and/or health of pavement infrastructure. First, in theexample of FIG. 23 a sensor enabled geosynthetic layer is installed inpavement infrastructure (2300). This geosynthetic layer may be ageogrid, a geofabric, or other geocomposites/geopolymers. Further, thegeogrid may be multiaxial and the rigid members may be used forplacement of the various sensors such as a strain gauge and a flexsensor. Continuing in our example, a communication link is provided(2310) between the sensor enabled geogrid within the pavementinfrastructure to a computing network, wherein the computing network mayreside in a cloud computing environment or a local computingenvironment. Further, the computing network is capable of hosting anapplication, a web application, a dynamic server applet, or any otherapplication in rendering the information from a relational orunstructured database. The information from the sensor enabled geogridwithin the pavement infrastructure is monitored (2320) and analyzed(2330) to determine the health, condition, and/or status of the pavementinfrastructure. Lastly, if warranted, preventative measures and/orcorrective action may be taken with regards to the pavementinfrastructure. Corrective actions may include repairing and replacingsections of pavement infrastructure, as well as remediating andrecovering infrastructure. Further, in additional examples, lifecyclemonitoring and analytics are collected and used to perform additionalmonitoring over installed pavement, including creating things such as avalue index, determining preferential grade and wear, and also ratingdifferent regions on strength of subgrade and other attributes andcharacteristics.

Referring now to FIG. 24 . In FIG. 24 an example embodiment of a userinterface from a computing network is illustrated. The user interfacewill typically populate with sensor information, schematics, diagrams,alerts, messages, and other information related to the status, conditionand/or health of infrastructure equipped with a sensor enabled grid andthe disclosure herein. The user interface is where preventative and/orcorrective action may be taken with respect to the substructure ofinterest. For example, based on the results of the analysis performed bythe computing network and the end user, certain preventativemaintenance, certain repairs, and/or certain replacement of substructuremay occur. It is also contemplated that other analysis parameters couldbe monitored, such as lifecycle analysis (i.e., how much life is left inthe structure based on a design life assumption). These types ofanalyses could be useful in capital planning so the current system isnot just envisioned as a maintenance tool, but could also be usedgenerally as a capital and operations planning tool.

Following long-standing patent law convention, the terms “a,” “an,” and“the” refer to “one or more” when used in this application, includingthe claims. Thus, for example, reference to “a subject” includes aplurality of subjects, unless the context clearly is to the contrary(e.g., a plurality of subjects), and so forth.

Throughout this specification and the claims, the terms “comprise,”“comprises,” and “comprising” are used in a non-exclusive sense, exceptwhere the context requires otherwise. Likewise, the term “include” andits grammatical variants are intended to be non-limiting, such thatrecitation of items in a list is not to the exclusion of other likeitems that can be substituted or added to the listed items.

For the purposes of this specification and appended claims, unlessotherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, sizes, dimensions,proportions, shapes, formulations, parameters, percentages, quantities,characteristics, and other numerical values used in the specificationand claims, are to be understood as being modified in all instances bythe term “about” even though the term “about” may not expressly appearwith the value, amount or range. Accordingly, unless indicated to thecontrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the followingspecification and attached claims are not and need not be exact, but maybe approximate and/or larger or smaller as desired, reflectingtolerances, conversion factors, rounding off, measurement error and thelike, and other factors known to those of skill in the art depending onthe desired properties sought to be obtained by the presently disclosedsubject matter. For example, the term “about,” when referring to a valuecan be meant to encompass variations of, in some embodiments ±100%, insome embodiments ±50%, in some embodiments ±20%, in some embodiments±10%, in some embodiments ±5%, in some embodiments ±1%, in someembodiments ±0.5%, and in some embodiments ±0.1% from the specifiedamount, as such variations are appropriate to perform the disclosedmethods or employ the disclosed compositions.

Further, the term “about” when used in connection with one or morenumbers or numerical ranges, should be understood to refer to all suchnumbers, including all numbers in a range and modifies that range byextending the boundaries above and below the numerical values set forth.The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers,e.g., whole integers, including fractions thereof, subsumed within thatrange (for example, the recitation of 1 to 5 includes 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5,as well as fractions thereof, e.g., 1.5, 2.25, 3.75, 4.1, and the like)and any range within that range.

Although the foregoing subject matter has been described in some detailby way of illustration and example for purposes of clarity ofunderstanding, it will be understood by those skilled in the art thatcertain changes and modifications can be practiced within the scope ofthe appended claims.

Therefore, the following is claimed:
 1. A system for rail trackinfrastructure monitoring, comprising: rail track infrastructure; asensor enabled geogrid, comprising: a multiaxial geogrid; one or moresensors operatively configured to the multiaxial geogrid to sensechanges in health, condition, and/or status of the rail trackinfrastructure; a microcontroller, wherein the microcontroller receivessignals from the sensor enabled geogrid; a communication network,wherein the communication network transmits the received signals fromthe microcontroller to a computer network; and the computer networkoperatively configured to display information from the one or moresensors about the health, condition, and/or status of the rail trackinfrastructure.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the sensor enabledgeogrid comprises a sensor enabled geofabric.
 3. The system of claim 1,wherein the sensor enabled geogrid is placed above a subgrade.
 4. Thesystem of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of sensor enabledgeogrid placed in various substrate layers of the rail trackinfrastructure.
 5. The system of claim 1, wherein the sensor enabledgeogrid further comprises a sensor pod, wherein the sensor pod housesthe microcontroller.
 6. The system of claim 1, further comprising agateway, wherein the gateway is configured to receive signals from thesensor enabled geogrid.
 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the computernetwork is further configured to a software platform for interpretingthe received signals.
 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the computernetwork is further configured to a user interface.
 9. A method formonitoring health, condition, and/or status of rail trackinfrastructure: installing a multiaxial sensor enabled geogrid in a railtrack infrastructure; providing a communication link from the multiaxialsensor enabled geogrid to a computing network; monitoring informationtransmitted from the sensor enabled geogrid; analyzing the informationfrom the multiaxial sensor enabled geogrid, wherein analyzing processesthe information with an infrastructure processing engine; filtering theinformation from the multiaxial sensor enabled geogrid, whereinfiltering is performed by the infrastructure processing engine; andidentifying in the information changes in health, condition and/orstatus of the rail track infrastructure.
 10. The method of claim 9,further comprising taking preventative measures and/or correctivemeasures to the rail track infrastructure.
 11. The method of claim 9,wherein installing the multiaxial sensor enabled geogrid places a straingauge on a surface of the multiaxial sensor enabled geogrid to detectstrain on the multiaxial sensor enabled geogrid.
 12. The method of claim9, wherein installing the multiaxial sensor enabled geogrid places aflex sensor on a surface of the multiaxial sensor enabled geogrid todetect flex on the multiaxial sensor enabled geogrid.
 13. The method ofclaim 9, wherein monitoring the information is performed by detectinginformation that exceeds threshold parameters of strain on a straingauge measurement.
 14. The method of claim 9, wherein the infrastructureprocessing engine communicates with a plurality of multiaxial sensorenabled geogrids.
 15. The method of claim 9, further comprising alertingof rail track infrastructure changes, wherein alerting sends anotification to a user that the rail track infrastructure isexperiencing a change in the health, condition, and/or status.
 16. Themethod of claim 9, further comprising detecting, by the multiaxialsensor enabled geogrid, a washout condition on rail track infrastructuresubgrade.
 17. The method of claim 9, further comprising detecting, bythe multiaxial sensor enabled geogrid, a washout condition on rail trackinfrastructure ballast.
 18. A system for rail track infrastructureintelligence, comprising: rail track infrastructure, wherein the railtrack infrastructure comprises: rail tracks; ballast material; amultiaxial sensor enabled geogrid; and subgrade material. a gateway,configured to a microcontroller to receive signals from the multiaxialsensor enabled geogrid; and a computing device, configured to receiveinformation from the gateway.
 19. The system of claim 18, furthercomprising a user interface configured to the computing device, whereinthe user interface displays diagnostic information on health, condition,and/or status of the rail track infrastructure from the multiaxialsensor enabled geogrid transmitting signals acquired by the gateway, andtransmitted through the gateway to the computing device.
 20. The systemof claim 18, further comprising a wireless communication network. 21.The system of claim 18, further comprising a sensor pod, wherein thesensor pod houses a microcontroller that receives signals from themultiaxial sensor enabled geogrid.